What Exactly is an Irrevocable Trust?
In the simplest terms, an irrevocable trust is a specific agreement between the individuals or entities creating the trust, the trustee (or trustees) who will manage the trust, and the beneficiaries that will benefit from the trust. The trust creator must follow certain legal requirements, sign the trust document, and then transfer any property to the trust that should be included to pass to beneficiaries. If they don’t title the properties or identify the assets in the trust’s name, the court will likely disallow those specific assets from inclusion in the trust.
The Basics of Living Trusts
Many people mistakenly believe that wills do not have to go through the probate. This is not true! In fact, the best way to avoid the arduous probate process is to make a living (or inter-vivos) trust. These trusts can be created in conjunction with a will, or as an alternative to one. Creating a living trust will save time, money, and the hassle of dealing with probate hearings. Here, we'll look at the basic aspects of living trusts.
What You Can Expect as an Estate Executor
For most people, being named the executor (or personal representative) of an estate is an honor. However, the job comes with many unforeseen challenges and obligations. The difficulty of the role generally correlates with the size of the estate.
How Do You Close Down a Business?
At some point, small business owners come across a difficult decision: whether to close down the business. The decision to do so might be related to financial difficulties, or personal life changes. The problem is that shutting down a business is just as complicated as starting one.
Things to Consider When a Relative Reaches Retirement
Everyone plans for a long, fulfilling life without financial constraints. Those who plan wisely enjoy leisure and comfort in their later years. Yet, for many people this isn't the case. Sometimes other family members need to help plan the care of a loved one.
Selling a Small Business: How to Deal With Assets
Trying to sell your business can be just as hard as it was to start in the first place. There are a lot of different issues that arise when closing down, or selling to a new owner. One of the most important decisions you'll have to make is how to dispose of the company's assets.